“And God saw everything that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.”
This verse concludes the account of the sixth day of creation in the book of Genesis, where God created various aspects of the natural world. Let’s explore this verse and its context in a Bible study.
Context: Genesis 1 provides an account of God’s creation of the universe and all that is in it. Each day of creation is described, and on the sixth day, God created land animals and the pinnacle of His creation, humankind.
God’s Assessment: In Genesis 1:31, after creating everything on the sixth day, God looked at everything He had made, and He saw that it was “very good.” This phrase reveals God’s satisfaction with His creation. It affirms that God’s work was perfect and that it fulfilled His intended purpose. The declaration of “very good” emphasizes the excellence and harmony of God’s creation.
Implications for Humanity: As the culmination of God’s creation, humans were created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27). Therefore, the affirmation that everything was “very good” includes the inherent goodness of humanity. It signifies the value God places on human life and highlights our responsibility to steward the earth and its resources with care and wisdom.
The Fall and Restoration: Although Genesis 1:31 depicts the original perfection of God’s creation, subsequent chapters in Genesis describe humanity’s fall into sin and the consequences that followed (Genesis 3). This fall introduced brokenness, suffering, and separation from God. However, the Bible also reveals God’s plan for redemption and restoration through Jesus Christ, offering hope and reconciliation.
Reflecting on Creation: Genesis 1:31 reminds us of the beauty and goodness inherent in God’s creation. It encourages us to appreciate the world around us and to recognize that every aspect of creation has been intricately designed by God. This verse also invites us to reflect on our role as caretakers of the earth, using its resources responsibly and promoting stewardship and sustainability.
God’s Workmanship: The affirmation that God’s creation is “very good” not only applies to the physical world but also extends to every person. Each individual is fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14), reflecting God’s intentional design. Recognizing this truth encourages us to treat others with dignity, respect, and love.
In conclusion, Genesis 1:31 concludes the account of God’s creation, emphasizing that everything He made was “very good.” It highlights the inherent goodness of creation, including humanity, and invites us to appreciate and care for God’s handiwork. Additionally, it reminds us of the fallen state of humanity and the need for redemption through Jesus Christ. This verse provides a foundation for understanding the value and purpose of both the natural world and human life.
